LOOK | 23 CNU grads brave Typhoon Tino to celebrate academic milestone
Not even the heavy rains and strong winds brought by Typhoon Tino could dampen the spirits of 23 graduates from Cebu Normal University (CNU) who graced the institution’s 2nd Hooding and Special Commencement Exercises held today at the Cebu City Hall.
Despite the inclement weather, 16 graduates showed up in person, while others joined virtually to celebrate their hard-earned success.
Among the graduates, 12 came from the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, earning their master’s and doctoral degrees; 10 hailed from the College of Teacher Education; and one graduate from the College of Tourism, Hotel, and Hospitality Management received an undergraduate degree.
Perseverance amid the storm
CNU President Dr. Daniel Ariaso Sr. lauded the graduates for their determination and resilience, saying their presence amid the storm reflected their strength of character.
“Despite the typhoon, we are here together to celebrate your successes,” he said, commending their courage and commitment.
Dr. Ariaso reminded the graduates that life’s challenges are inevitable but can be overcome through integrity and perseverance.
He encouraged them to live out CNU’s core values—honesty, integrity, and excellence—as they move forward in their professional and personal journeys.
“You carry CNU’s brand of excellence with you. The way you behave, talk, and perform your job—that’s CNU,” he added.
Leading with compassion and courage
Commencement speaker Dr. Rolly Villarin, Provincial Department of Health Officer, urged the graduates to lead with radical compassion, moral courage, and consecrated service.
“We need leaders who are globally competitive in competence yet deeply Filipino in commitment,” he said.
He reminded the graduates that true success is not defined by titles or personal advancement, but by the positive impact one makes on others.
“What our country needs are leaders who understand that true success is measured not by how high you climb, but by how many you lift as you rise. Your CNU education is not a credential to collect—it is a covenant to keep,” Dr. Villarin emphasized.
Voices of triumph
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Dr. Rogela Flores, one of the doctoral completers, expressed heartfelt gratitude to CNU for holding a face-to-face ceremony despite the typhoon and after years of pandemic restrictions.
Reflecting on her academic journey that began during the uncertainty of COVID-19, Dr. Flores described the milestone as a testament to perseverance and purpose.
“Earning our degree is more than completing requirements—it is proof of how far perseverance, purpose, and passion can take us,” she said.
Dr. Flores shared how she overcame stress, anxiety, and self-doubt throughout her studies, underscoring the value of mental health and self-leadership.
“There is no shame in struggle. Excellence begins with self-leadership. Leadership is not perfection—it is perseverance, discipline, humility, and heart,” she added.
She concluded her speech with a message of hope, reminding her fellow graduates that no delay can diminish the value of hard work and determination.
As Typhoon Tino battered Cebu outside, the graduates stood firm inside the graduation hall—symbols of resilience, excellence, and the enduring spirit of the Crimson and Gold.
